FG approves policy to regulate trade unions’ activities and address strike actions

Nigeria's New Industrial Relations Policy: Progress or Power Play?

In an effort to reshape the landscape of labor relations in Nigeria, the Federal Government has officially approved the National Industrial Relations Policy (NIRP) 2025. This landmark decision comes amid mounting dissatisfaction across the country’s labor sector and an ongoing strike by health workers, reigniting debates over government-labor dynamics.

A Promise of Reform

According to Minister of Information Mohammed Idris, the NIRP seeks to provide a comprehensive framework for managing industrial relations. Its goals include:

• Reducing the frequency of strikes
• Promoting social dialogue and tripartite cooperation among government, employers, and workers
• Aligning Nigeria’s practices with International Labour Organisation (ILO) standards

The policy was birthed out of frustration with outdated laws and inconsistent enforcement, aiming to reset the rules of engagement between stakeholders in the workforce.

Health Workers in Revolt

Ironically, the policy was introduced during a tense moment in the health sector. Nurses and doctors, under the banner of NANNM-FHI, are staging a nationwide strike, now in its third day. The government has withdrawn the circular that triggered the protest and promised to negotiate revised allowances.

However, leaders like Morakinyo-Olajide Rilwan insist that action must precede promises:

“We’re not comfortable with suspending the strike on promises. There must be concrete steps taken before we even consider that.”

The workers are also demanding respect for non-financial concerns such as centralized postings and workplace support , issues the NIRP must grapple with if it hopes to restore confidence.

Labour Unions: Guarding Their Turf

Leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) have expressed deep skepticism. They argue that the government’s attempt to regulate unions goes beyond administration and borders on interference:

• Joe Ajaero (NLC) emphasized that union governance must remain independent, warning that global bodies like the ILO are watching Nigeria closely.
• The TUC accused authorities of using divide-and-rule tactics to destabilize solidarity between unions, especially in matters like NSITF and PenCom fund management.

Perspectives Worth Considering

This moment presents a clash of intent versus perception:

• Policy vs. Practice: Nigeria’s challenge has often been implementing policies with integrity.
• Global Scrutiny: With the ILO involved, international credibility hinges on inclusive and transparent engagement.
• Worker Morale: Unless trust is rebuilt, many may view NIRP as a tool for control rather than collaboration.

A Glimmer of Reform in Health

To reinforce its commitment to health sector reform, the government has approved a new Oncology Centre at UCH Ibadan. This move signals intention, but whether it convinces striking workers remains to be seen.

Last Line of Action: The NIRP 2025 is poised at a crossroads, it can either be a transformative policy for Nigeria’s workforce or another hollow directive. Its real test lies in the government’s ability to foster trust, uphold autonomy, and prioritize the welfare of workers over bureaucracy.